Hamilton ‘ready to attack’ as he vows to be better in F1 2019

Reigning Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton says he is “ready to attack” the upcoming season as he targets a sixth drivers' title in 2019.

Hamilton claimed 11 race victories en route to sealing his fifth world title in 2018, becoming one of just three drivers in history to win five or more world championships. 

A further triumph in the 2019 campaign would see the Briton edge ever closer to Michael Schumacher’s all-time record of seven drivers’ titles. 

“2018 was a great year, but I feel like 2019 can be even better,” Hamilton said. 

“I want to achieve more, I want to continue to keep pushing. I feel energised and I'm ready to attack.” 

Mercedes unveiled its 2019 car on Wednesday during a shakedown event at Silverstone with the team hoping its W10 will continue its clean sweep of world championship titles since the start of the V6 hybrid era in 2014. 

The German manufacturer has the chance to equal Ferrari’s tally of six consecutive constructors’ titles providing it successfully defends its crown, while it could become the first team in history to achieve six straight world championship doubles. 

Hamilton insisted he is focused for the season ahead after completely switching off from racing during the winter break as he spent time exploring new off-track activities. 

"I had a great Christmas with my family and then I went snowmobiling, I went skiing, I went surfing with Kelly Slater, which was amazing," Hamilton added of his winter exploits. 

"I completely switched off from racing for a while, trying to focus and re-centre myself and training hard for the new season.”